Micheál Martin the Trumpologist: European leaders look for lessons from Taoiseach’s Oval Office approach
Martin did not take on Trump in a full-frontal challenge – but nor was he ever likely to; no Taoiseach would. Martin did not take on Trump in a full-frontal challenge – but nor was he ever likely to; no Taoiseach would. Maynooth professor of European politics John O’Brennan observed that the Oval Office meeting was “always going to be difficult”. Martin’s Trump management will be studied by anxious world leaders wondering how best to approach the beast in his lair. US president Donald Trump, Micheál Martin and his wife Mary on St Patrick's Day in Washington.
Source: The Irish Times March 20, 2026 12:32 UTC
